What is a Clinical Trial?

A clinical trial or study is a closely supervised investigative process which aims
to determine or confirm how a product or technique works in human patients. At the
VRI we conduct trials that involve the testing of contact lens designs, contact lens
examination or fitting techniques, contact lens care products, eyeglasses and optical
instruments

Our Investigational Review Process

The VRI clinical trials are reviewed by the Ferris State University Investigational
Review Board (IRB) who must provide their approval prior to a clinical trial beginning.
The IRB is responsible for ensuring that your rights and safety are protected and
that no clinical trial procedures will be performed on you without your informed consent
and approval.

The IRB approves study protocols, which is a carefully designed and detailed plan
that is developed and then reviewed by a committee of experienced people. The protocol
describes who may participate in a trial, the schedule of tests and procedures, what
products are being tested and how long the trial will last.

During these clinical trials study participants will be seen regularly by the research
staff to monitor the safety and effectiveness of the products or procedures that are
being tested.